“A state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.”

Even the healthiest of adolescents have tough times. Even the best adjusted have periods of depression, anxiety and despair.

Every culture has to address psychological health it is a universal human requirement. No matter where we are from, what school we attend, what we do for a living all of us have to understand how to attain and sustain mental health.

Having mental illness is not a choice or moral failing. The factis, mental illnesses occur at similar rates around the world, in every culture and all socioeconomic group. Like any other medical condition, mental illness requires treatment.

At times, any person may feel "crazy" and/or out of control. Mental illness is not defined by short term experiences of symptoms but more frequently the long term symptoms.

Each mental illness has its own set of symptoms but some common signs can include the following

Excessive worry or fear

Feeling excessively sad or low

Confused thinking or problems concentrating and learning

Extreme mood changes, including uncontrollable “highs” or feelings of euphoria

Prolonged or strong feelings of irritability or anger

Avoiding friends and social activities

Difficulties understanding or relating to people

Changes in sleep habits or feeling tired and low energy

Not getting help often has more to do with the stigma of being seen as crazy. In reality, taking steps to get help for yourself or someone you know is like taking your epi-pen or asthma inhaler with you when you go on a hike in the woods. Not crazy, smart.

Remember, having mental illness is not a choice or moral failing. Mental illnesses occur at similar rates around the world, in every culture and all socioeconomic group.